Three first team players spent their day off working with the youth team to progress their coaching qualifications.
Rovers official website met up with three first team players Richie Wellens, David Cotterill and Jamie McCombe at Cantley Park training ground on Wednesday. The three players came in on their day off to progress their coaching badges by working with the youth team. The players took training sessions, which were guided and monitored by a PFA coach throughout the day.Paul Wilson, Academy Manager said: "All the youth team scholars have to take their Level 2 coaching badges as part of their football education.
"This is run by the PFA here at Cantley Park and gives the young lads another string to their bow. The three first team players asked if they could get involved as they look to get their coaching badges, and we agreed."
David Cotterill, first team player said: "For various reasons, the three of us missed out on getting our Level 2 badges, so that we can progress to get the UEFA 'B' badge.
"Coaching is something that I am looking at for when I can no longer play football, as you always need to look to the future. I want to stay in the game when I come to the end of my playing career, so need to start progressing through the levels. This is the first stage and we are more than happy to get involved with the youth team.
"This is a bit outside my comfort zone. I am always the one to speak out when I'm sat in the crowd at player meetings, but actually standing in front of a group can be a bit daunting, so I have to learn how to coach and work with players at this level, but I am enjoying doing this qualification.
"You should always keep your mind open to learning more and progressing your career which, thanks to the PFA, I am doing."
The Doncaster Rovers Academy is supported by both fans and players who have joined the Rovers Alliance, which is an exclusive members club of which its' purpose is to raise vital funds for the club's youth development system, as well as giving members a closer link to Doncaster Rovers with the chance of winning various prizes and experiences.
For more information on the Rovers Alliance please call 01302 764664 or email roversalliance@doncasterroversfc.co.uk